PRH distribution m.d. James to depart as Danek joins from US

Colin James has decided to leave his role as m.d. of distribution for Penguin Random House after 18 years at the company, with Annette Danek joining from the US side of the business.

James departs in March 2023 and “will be exploring part-time working opportunities” before preparing for his retirement. 

He first joined Random House as business systems director and has held several senior roles within technology and distribution over the years, including deputy m.d. for distribution and group IT director. Currently he oversees all group and third-party operations across the Frating, Manningtree and Grantham sites.

Deborah Wright, group operations director, said: “Managing the complexities of our distribution operations requires a great deal of multi-tasking, knowledge, patience and good humour. Many people across the business have worked with Colin over the years and he has become an incredibly valued colleague to different teams around the business. He will be greatly missed.”

James will continue to manage PRH’s distribution operations before being joined in January 2023 by Annette Danek, who will work with him during a transitional period before taking over his responsibilities.

Danek joins from Penguin Random House US, in the newly created role of PRH chief supply chain officer, reporting to Nihar Malaviya, president and chief operating officer for Penguin Random House US. As part of her global remit, she will be moving to the UK for a significant period, taking on full responsibility for managing distribution operations, reporting to Wright.

Wright said: “Annette brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise with her. She has been with our US team since 1996 and under her leadership, their supply chain has become widely recognised for its speed and reliability. She has unwaveringly guided the US team through many large-scale logistics transitions, including integrating companies, introducing new technologies and innovating ways to service their customers.

“I am incredibly excited to work with Annette to bring her brilliant leadership skills and supply chain expertise to our operations here. I am confident she will help us further our supply chain capabilities, maintain our focus on productivity improvements, and reduce our overall carbon footprint within the supply chain.”